Events scheduled around Washington D.C. to remember 9/11

WASHINGTON, September 8, 2013 — September 11, 2013 will mark 12 years since the worst terrorist attack ever carried out on American soil. Despite the years that have passed it is an event as clear in our minds as if it were yesterday. Everyone remembers where they were when it happened, and will for the rest of their lives. It is certainly not a day of celebration but it is a day to remember.

Since 9/11 falls on a Wednesday this year, many of the events marking the anniversary took place last weekend. However, there are also several events scheduled for September 11 or for the upcoming weekend to help mark the day and to remember.

National Day of Service

The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance was started in 2002 by family members of 9/11 victims as a way to honor victims and survivors and others who stepped up and did remarkable things on that day.

In 2009, Congress made it an official national day.

Family members had wanted a day of service because on 9/11 and the days after, American’s united and gave so much in the spirit of compassion and patriotism. They felt that they best way to pay tribute to those who rose up in service was to continue to serve.

The Pentagon Memorial was designed for all to remember and reflect on the events of September 11, 2001. The memorial is free and open to the public seven days a week.

Every year a private ceremony is held at the Pentagon memorial for family members of those who were lost on the Pentagon grounds and survivors of the attack. This ceremony is by invitation only.

The private commemoration will take place between 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. on Wednesday. The public is welcome to come after the ceremony to pay their respects.

Alexandria Remembering 9/11

The City of Alexandria invites the public to a 10 a.m. Wednesday remembrance ceremony for the 12th anniversary of the events of Sept. 11, 2001. The event will take place in Market Square at 301 King St. The purpose of the commemoration is “to give thanks and to pay tribute to those who responded on 9/11 without fear, acted without hesitation, and gave their lives to save others.” The ceremony will feature remarks from Alexandria Mayor Bill Euille, Alexandria Sheriff Dana Lawhorne, Police Chief Earl Cook and Fire Chief Adam Thiel.

9/11 Heroes Run Arlington

The 9/11 Heroes run take place all around the world on dates close to 9/11 to remember the heroes of 9/11 and in the wars since.

On September 11, 2013 a moment of silence will be held at 9:37 a.m. to remember the victims of the tragedy. ArlingtonCounty will hang United States flags from overpasses and buildings. The cemetery is open to the public who are welcome to attend the ceremony.

Two Million Bikers Ride

In a response to the Million Muslim March taking place on September 11, thousands of motorcyclists are converging on WashingtonD.C. to pay their respects to the victims, heroes, survivors and the dead.

They did not receive a permit to have traffic blocked off so they will be riding through the streets in what could turn out to be an all day event.

Their exact route is being kept secret over security concerns according to the events Facebook page but by following the event on twitter @2millbikers2DC the route may be release so spectators can cheer the riders on and show their support.

Arlington County Commemoration Ceremony

ArlingtonCounty will hold a ceremony to commemorate the 184 victims who lost their lives at the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001. The event is open to the public.

Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2013, 9:30 a.m. with a moment of silence at 9:37 a.m. at CourthousePlaza, 2100 Clarendon Boulevard, Arlington, Virginia. The moment of silence will be followed by the playing of “Taps,” and the lowering of the flag to half-staff. ArlingtonCounty’s Combined Color Guard, which is comprised of members from the Police Department, Fire Department, and Sheriff’s Office, will present the colors.

The above report was compiled using information available from multiple sources including press releases, public statements, radio broadcasts and transcripts, social media, publicly available records, transcripts and public reports. No single source was used.

Susan L. Ruth is a long-time Washington, DC resident with extensive ties throughout the community. She is a genealogical researcher and writer, and is an active volunteer in the Northern Virginia competitive swimming community. Susan previously worked providing life-skills to head injured adults.
Susan and her husband Kerry currently live in Northern Virginia with their three sons, Ryley, Casey and Jack and their American Bulldog, Leila.